February 20, 2026
In a recent op-ed article published by NJ Spotlight News,
Debra L. Wentz, PhD, President and CEO of the Ne Association of Mental Health
and Addition Agencies sad that the funding for behavioral health care in New
Jersey has grown but still hasn’t reached the level needed to match the grown
in services needed.
“Since
the COVID-19 pandemic, children, youth and adults across our state continue to
experience rising rates of anxiety, depression, substance-use disorders, trauma
and suicidal ideation. Emergency departments remain overwhelmed,” Dr. Wentz
wrote.
“Families struggle to access timely outpatient care. Schools
report unprecedented behavioral health challenges. Communities are navigating
the ripple effects of housing instability, food insecurity and workforce
shortages. The demand for services hasn’t returned to pre-term pandemic levels
— it’s intensified,” Dr. Wentz added.
Dr. Wentz also mentions how there needs to be a shift in
strengthening the medical infrastructure of New Jersey regarding integrated
care as more and more essential care that is given out is a mixture of physical
and behavioral health care.
“Underfunding
behavioral health doesn’t save money. It shifts costs to more expensive systems
and ultimately costs the state of New Jersey more,” Dr. Wentz said.
